These apples reminded me of the bible verse “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11)

And while these aren’t golden apples, and there is no silver in Oak Creek Canyon, I was reminded that words have the power to heal or to harm a person.

Here is what I heard the Father say to me….

My Child~

Words are powerful. They can heal and encourage a person or they can break their spirit. (Proverbs 15:4, Proverbs 12:18) You know that don’t you? I bet right now you can bring to mind those who have cut you through, and those who have encouraged you….all by the words that they spoke.

May I suggest that you always speak kindly to others? The right word spoken at the right time can be a huge blessing to someone. (Proverbs 25:11)

You have no idea what another person might be going through in their life. Even if they are rude, mean, spiteful, hostile or spewing garbage in your face, respond with love and kindness. A kind and gentle word from you can quiet their spirit. (Proverbs 15:1) And when you bring peace to others you are demonstrating that you are My Child. (Matthew 5:9)

Choose to speak kind and encouraging words to someone today. (Ephesians 4:29) It will make their day, and yours too!

How I want to protect you! Like a mother bird who looks after her babies I want to gather you under my wings so you can feel My love, comfort and protection. I want to shelter you from all harm and danger. (Matthew 23:37) Let Me be your protection! Let Me be your shelter and your provider!

As you looked in on the babies in their nest you saw how vulnerable they were. You are vulnerable too, My Child. Without Me to guide and protect you, you can find yourself in all kinds of danger.

Did you hear the mother bird chirping loudly as you looked in her nest? She was sounding the alarm that danger was near. She was concerned for her babies. The same is true of our relationship. When I see danger approaching you, or you getting too close to things that could hurt you, I sound the alarm. You may hear Me in the small voice inside of you. You may hear My advice through the words of a friend, the words of a song, a pastor, or through My Word, the Bible. Listen to Me! I am guiding you for your good!

My Child, I care for you just as a mother bird cares for her babies. I love you so very much. Never forget that. And even if you can’t see or feel me, like the baby birds whose mother is out looking for food, you can hear My voice. For I am with you always. (Isaiah 41:10, Deuteronomy 31:6)

You wonder if I hear your prayers. You wonder if I see your struggles. You wonder if I am involved in your life. The answer to all of your questions is YES! I hear your cries and I see your struggles. I am near and I am involved in your life. (Exodus 3:7, Psalm 34:6)

When you needed to speak with someone and you ran into her at the grocery store….that was Me arranging that encounter.

When the gardener that you had been meaning to call showed up across the street to rake your neighbor’s yard…that was Me also.

These small “coincidences” are a reminder to you that I am involved in your life……in the big things and the small things.

When the bible study that you were going through asked in chapter 1 for you to write down questions and ideas that you wanted Me to clarify, and 4 weeks later you were slammed with the answer, and the next day you were asked in the study book if I had clarified the answer for you….yes that was Me too.

You see, not only did I give you the answer loud and clear on Tuesday, I wanted to make sure you understood that was Me talking…hence the follow up question in your bible study book on Wednesday. Who else could time the follow up question so perfectly but Me?

I may take longer to act than you prefer. And My ways may not be what you desire either (they can involve more pain than you would like). How I accomplish things may not be in the same manner that you would do them. That is OK. My ways are not like your ways. (Isaiah 55:8-9)

And in those times when the answers aren’t all that clear, know that I am nearby. I am guiding you. Take a small step if you are unsure and I will let you know if you are headed in the right direction.

I love you My Child, and I am involved in your life. Never forget that. I know that what you are going through is tedious and unpleasant but lean into Me, talk to Me about it, and I will help you through it. I am, after all your Father and I know what you need before you even ask Me. (Matthew 6:8)

Like this:

I see that you are worried, concerned and confused. You are wondering what is the best path to take; what is the best decision to make.

First, stop fretting and quiet yourself. Sit still and think about the fact that I am the God of the universe and I am willing to help you. (Psalm 46:10)

Next, spend some time in My Word for it contains much wisdom. Read it and meditate on what it says during the day and think about it as you go to sleep at night. Be diligent to do what it says, and you will be successful…..even prosperous! (Joshua 1:8)

Have courage! Try new things and step out of your comfort zone! Do not be afraid of what lies in front of you and do not be dismayed if situations don’t turn out exactly as you desire. Remember, I am with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

If what concerns you isn’t directly addressed in My Word, then ask Me and I will guide you. (James 1:5-6) My Spirit lives within you and is always available to help you. (John 14:16-17)

What parent would leave their child without guidance? What parent would allow their child to run into the street? Fear not, for you are My Child. I am watching you and I will look out for you. If you are seeking Me and My ways, you won’t go wrong. I will always guide you and bring you back to the correct path if you make a detour. (Luke 15:3-6)

Bring Me your decisions, concerns and requests. Ask of Me and I will help you, guide you, and give you the comfort that you need.

Come now, it is time to move forward. I am shining the light on your path. Do you see it? (Psalm 119:105)